Santa 911: Christmas Around the World

This webquest is designed to allow students to utilize the technology of the Internet to explore the various ways in which Christmas is celebrated around the world. This exploration into differing customs and traditions will provide students with an opportunity to take an alternate perspective and experience something familiar in an unfamiliar way. In addition, certain discoveries about the origin of well-known traditions and linkages may be made between the often similar practices of different cultures!

Introduction

OH NO! Santa Claus has come down with a terrible flu. He needs someone to travel with him and his reindeer on Christmas Eve to deliver gifts to the children of the world. Do you think you could be Santa's special helper? Santa needs his helper to know about the different ways that people celebrate Christmas around the world. After all, you wouldn't want to blow his cover! Make sure that you visit at least 5 different countries to learn about such things as how they decorate for Christmas, special foods they prepare, and other family traditions and customs that help them celebrate this special holiday. Don't forget to let Santa and your teacher know how you're doing!